Motorcyclists often suffer life-threatening injuries in the event of an accident, as motorcycles don’t offer the same protections as cars and trucks.

In Tennessee, 200 motorcyclists died in 2023, which indicates an increase of 51 people as compared to 2022. There were also 3,090 motorcycle crashes in 2023. Many of these accidents are caused by drivers breaking traffic laws. It’s important to understand the rules and regulations about riding a motorcycle in Tennessee. Make sure you have all the equipment and information you need before setting out on Knoxville’s roads on your motorcycle.

Following are some frequently asked questions about motorcycles in Tennessee:

• Do I need a motorcycle license in Tennessee?
• At what age can someone operate a motorcycle in Tennessee?
• What are the restrictions for motorcycle permit holders under 18 years old?
• What are the required types of equipment for motorcycles under Tennessee law?
• Does Tennessee have a universal helmet law for motorcyclists?
• What are the requirements for protective goggles or face shields for Tennessee motorcyclists?
• Is lane-splitting for motorcyclists legal in Tennessee?
• Do you have a Knoxville motorcycle accident attorney near me?

Do I need a motorcycle license in Tennessee?

Per the state of Tennessee, “A Motorcycle Operator (Class M) License allows the holder 16 years of age or older to operate a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle over 50cc. A Motorcycle License may be issued on its own or with your Regular Driver’s License.”

Minors 15 years or older can receive a special permit to operate a motorcycle with restrictions.

At what age can someone operate a motorcycle in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, you must be 16 years or older to operate a motorcycle.

What are the restrictions for motorcycle permit holders under 18 years old?

If an applicant is under the age of 18, their parent or legal guardian must complete a Minor/Teenage Affidavit and Cancellation form, which makes the parent or guardian financially liable for the applicant’s actions.

The state also puts the following restrictions on motorcycle permit holders:

• Limited to a motorcycle with a maximum cylinder size of 650 cubic centimeters (650cc).
• Must not carry passengers.
• Restricted from interstate highways or otherwise marked roads.
• Operation during daylight hours only.
• Limited to a 20-mile radius of the driver’s home.

What are the required types of equipment for motorcycles under Tennessee law?

Tennessee law requires the following safety equipment for your motorcycle:

• You must ride only on permanent seats attached for that purpose. You are not permitted to carry a passenger on a motorcycle that’s not built to carry passengers.
• You must ride astride your motorcycle, facing forward with one leg on each side of the bike.
• You may not carry any packages or items that prevent you from keeping both hands on the handlebars.
• Your headlight(s) must be on at all times while you’re operating the motorcycle.
• You must wear a helmet that meets federal standards. The state further notes, “The helmet must be either DOT, ASTM, CSPM or Snell labeled before the examiner can administer the road test. Every person must wear a DOT-approved helmet while operating a motorcycle or motordriven cycle.”
• Your motorcycle must be equipped with a windshield that meets U.S. Department of Transportation requirements. You and your passengers must also wear safety goggles, glasses containing impact-resistant lenses, or a helmet with a face shield.
• Your motorcycle must be equipped with a rear-view mirror mounted on the left handlebar. Your bike must also have footrests for both the driver and the passenger.
• Your motorcycle must have one red tail light and one red stop light. The stop light may be incorporated into the tail light. The light should be visible from a distance of one hundred feet.
• You may not operate your motorcycle on any roads unless it’s equipped with a muffler that is in good working order. “Straight pipes” are illegal in Tennessee.

Does Tennessee have a universal helmet law for motorcyclists?

Yes, Tennessee has a universal helmet law for motorcyclists. This means all riders and passengers, regardless of age, are required to wear a helmet while on a motorcycle. The helmet must meet the safety standards set by the Department of Transportation (DOT).

For added safety, helmets should have features such as impact-resistant lining, padding, and a secure chin strap.

What are the requirements for protective goggles or face shields for Tennessee motorcyclists?

In Tennessee, motorcyclists are required to wear protective eyewear — such as goggles, glasses, or a face shield — if their motorcycle does not have a windshield. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:

• Riders must wear goggles or a face shield to protect their eyes from debris, wind, and other elements if their motorcycle lacks an adequate windshield.
• The protective eyewear should be durable and designed for safety, as standard sunglasses or non-impact-resistant glasses might not provide adequate protection.
• If your helmet has a built-in visor or face shield that meets safety standards, this can fulfill the requirement for eye protection.

Is lane-splitting for motorcyclists legal in Tennessee?

No, lane-splitting is not legal for motorcyclists in Tennessee. Lane-splitting, or riding a motorcycle between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic, is prohibited under Tennessee law. Motorcyclists are required to follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles, which means they must stay in a single lane and can’t ride between lanes of cars, even in heavy or slow-moving traffic.

Do you have a Knoxville motorcycle accident attorney near me?

Banks and Jones is dedicated to providing comprehensive counsel to clients throughout the region. You can find us at 2125 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, Tennessee 37921. If you are too injured to come to us, we can make alternative arrangements.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Knoxville, you need experienced legal advocates who understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face on the road. The Knoxville motorcycle accident lawyers at Banks & Jones are here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical bills, and other losses. With our dedicated, client-centered approach and deep knowledge of Tennessee motorcycle laws, we’re prepared to fight tirelessly on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation, and take the first step toward getting the justice and recovery you deserve.